Manufacturing Improvement Engineer

Manufacturing Improvement Engineer – Howdens Joinery

We’re looking for a Manufacturing Improvement Engineer to join our team at Howdens Joinery, based at our manufacturing site in Howden, Goole.

In this role, you’ll track production machine performance, deliver incremental improvements to existing technologies, and support the implementation of new technologies and processes. Your technical expertise and problem‑solving skills will help identify opportunities, deliver sustainable improvements, and enhance overall manufacturing efficiency.

Location: Howden, East Yorkshire

Contract: Full Time / Permanent

Reporting to: Manufacturing Improvement Manager

Why Join Howdens

Howdens is the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier, supplying over 900 depots across the UK and Europe, with an ambitious growth plan for the future. We value innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning and offer a fast‑paced environment to grow your career.

Responsibilities

• Track production machinery performance to drive improvements in OEE through Lean manufacturing processes
• Identify process opportunities and quantify their business impact
• Develop and deliver manufacturing improvement projects from concept through to implementation
• Lead root cause analysis of production issues to deliver sustainable solutions
• Collaborate with Operations Management, Maintenance and cross‑functional teams to support and influence continuous improvement
• Support the introduction of new technologies and products into manufacturing
• Use SolidWorks to design and deliver in‑house improvements to existing equipment and processes
• Apply and promote Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen and Centre Lining techniques to standardise and optimise performance
• Track and communicate improvement results across teams and stakeholders

Qualifications

• Degree in an Engineering discipline (or equivalent experience)
• Proven experience in manufacturing improvement or process engineering within a high‑volume production environment
• Green Belt Six Sigma trained with measured project results
• Strong working knowledge of Lean Manufacturing principles and continuous improvement tools
• Proficiency in SolidWorks (or similar CAD software) for equipment design and modification
• Understanding of UK and EN safety standards for equipment modification and installation
• Excellent analytical, communication and influencing skills with the ability to engage cross‑functional teams
• A proactive, hands‑on approach with a strong focus on results and delivering measurable improvements

Benefits

• Competitive salary plus bonus
• Pension plan with a maximum company contribution of 12%
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays, with an option to purchase more
• Staff discount
• Free lunch in our on‑site canteen
• Free onsite car parking
• Ongoing support and professional development opportunities
• A collaborative, supportive and forward‑thinking environment

About Howdens

Howdens Joinery is the UK’s number one trade kitchen supplier, providing thousands of products across kitchens, joinery and hardware. We have over 900 depots throughout the UK and Europe, and we continue to grow our £2.2 billion sales last year with a credible growth plan. Our environment offers strong entrepreneurial ethos and opportunities to develop within a fast‑paced commercial setting.

How to Apply

We are shaping a future where exceptional service, innovation and sustainability are at the core of everything we do. If you’re looking for a place where you can grow and advance your career, Howdens could be the perfect fit. Join a team that prioritises innovation, safety and excellence. If you’re ready to lead impactful projects and drive meaningful change, we encourage you to apply today.

If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email recruitmentteam@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.